Every cat is at risk of a complex medical condition called triaditis [try-uh-DYE-dus]. But what is it, and can it be treated?

Triaditis is inflammation of three organs at the same time — the pancreas, liver and intestinal tract. It’s unclear how the inflammation starts, but feline anatomy likely impacts how it goes on to involve multiple organs. The cat’s common bile duct and pancreatic duct join before they drain into the intestinal tract. That means an infection in one organ can easily spread to another.

The risk factors for triaditis aren’t known either, so there’s no way to prevent it. The key is promptly noting the clinical signs, like lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal pain and dehydration. That way, supportive care and specific therapies can be administered as soon as possible.